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Why Early Diagnosis of Peripheral Venous Disease Matters

Jul 31, 2024
A closeup image of an elderly woman holding her calf and examining spider and varicose veins.

Early diagnosis of peripheral venous disease is imperative for preventing severe and potentially life-threatening conditions. By treating the early symptoms of venous disease, including varicose veins or pain and swelling in the legs, you may prevent more serious complications such as stroke, infection, or amputation. 

Peripheral venous disease (PVD) is a medical condition that affects the veins–primarily in the legs–and can cause significant health issues if not addressed promptly. Although it may begin with mild symptoms such as leg pain or swelling, PVD can advance to more severe complications like chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or leg ulcers and infections. Early diagnosis is critical for managing these symptoms and preventing further health complications.

The multi-disciplinary team of specialists at CardioVascular Health Clinic includes experts with decades of experience diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions like peripheral venous disease. Using cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and innovative, minimally invasive treatment strategies, we provide comprehensive, personalized care to patients throughout Oklahoma and beyond. By combining our experience and expertise with an integrative, whole-person approach to treatment, we are setting a national standard for cardiovascular care that reduces recovery time, lowers the risk of complications, and produces superior outcomes in symptom management and overall quality of life.

Understanding Peripheral Venous Disease

Peripheral venous disease affects the veins outside the heart and brain and primarily impacts blood flow in the legs. It occurs when the veins struggle to send blood back to the heart, causing it to pool in the legs. This can lead to symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, and the appearance of varicose veins.

Several factors can contribute to the development of PVD, including:

  • Prolonged periods of standing or sitting
  • Obesity
  • Age
  • Family history of venous problems
  • Medical conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI)

Symptoms of peripheral venous disease can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and swelling. In the early stages of PVD, you might notice your legs feel tired or heavy, especially after standing for long periods, but there are often few symptoms that prompt you to visit a doctor. 

However, as the condition progresses, you may experience more noticeable swelling, skin discoloration, and spider veins or varicose veins. If left untreated, PVD can lead to serious complications like leg ulcers, infections, and blood clots.

Understanding PVD is the first step in recognizing its symptoms and seeking appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and intervention can greatly improve your quality of life and prevent further health issues.

Risks of Untreated PVD

If peripheral venous disease is not treated, it can lead to several serious health complications. One common issue is chronic venous insufficiency. Damage to the valves in the veins prevents blood from effectively returning to the heart, causing persistent swelling and discomfort in the legs.

Varicose veins, another complication, are swollen, twisted veins that are easily visible under the skin. While many consider them to be a cosmetic issue, varicose veins can cause significant pain and lead to more severe problems if ignored.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a more serious complication of untreated PVD. It occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. DVT can cause leg pain, swelling, and redness. If the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a life-threatening condition known as a pulmonary embolism.

Leg ulcers and skin infections are also possible consequences of untreated PVD. Poor blood flow can cause the skin to break down and develop painful, non-healing sores with a risk of infection, gangrene, and amputation.

However, many of these severe outcomes can be prevented with early diagnosis and treatment. 

Benefits of Early Diagnosis of PVD

When PVD is identified in the early stages, less invasive treatments can be used with a lower risk of complications. If leg pain, swelling, and other early symptoms appear, seeking out the expertise of a vascular specialist can lead to an earlier diagnosis, greatly improving treatment outcomes and your health and quality of life. 

One of the primary benefits of early diagnosis is your doctor will be able to manage your symptoms better and more effectively. Patients can receive personalized treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, compression therapy, or minimally invasive procedures to restore better blood flow. These early interventions can reduce pain, swelling, and discomfort so you can resume daily activities and feel like yourself again.

Furthermore, early diagnosis helps prevent PVD from progressing to a more serious condition like chronic venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, or the development of leg ulcers. By avoiding these complications, you may also avoid the need for more aggressive treatment or surgery.

Regular monitoring and early intervention can help improve immediate symptoms and prevent long-term complications. By being aware of your condition, you can make informed decisions about your treatment, decide upon lifestyle changes, and preserve your vascular health.

Tools and Techniques for Diagnosing PVD

Diagnosing PVD may require a combination of methods, including physical exams, ultrasound, and other imaging techniques. Several tools are available that help identify PVD so your doctor can determine the best course of action. These include:

  • Physical Examination. The first step in diagnosis usually involves a thorough physical exam. The doctor will check for visible signs like varicose veins, swelling, and skin discoloration or other changes.
  • Ultrasound. This non-invasive imaging technique is commonly used to assess blood flow in the veins. It helps detect blockages or clots and determine the functioning of the venous valves.
  • Venography. In this procedure, a contrast dye is injected into the veins, and X-rays are taken to create detailed images of the vein structure. It is particularly useful for identifying deep vein thrombosis.
  • Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI). This is a simple test that measures the blood pressure in the ankles compared to the arms. A significant difference between the two measurements can indicate PVD.
  • Magnetic Resonance Venography. This test uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to view the veins.
  • Computed Tomography Venography. In this test, a CT scan and contrast dye are used to produce detailed vein images.

Regular checkups and awareness of PVD symptoms are essential for early detection. If you experience persistent leg pain, swelling, or other symptoms, it’s important to seek medical advice promptly. 

Early diagnosis of PVD can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved vascular health.

After a PVD Diagnosis

Once you have been diagnosed with peripheral venous disease, your doctor will design a personalized treatment plan to improve your condition and prevent further complications. The initial treatment usually involves lifestyle modifications and medical interventions tailored to your specific needs, such as:

  • Exercise. Regular physical activity can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
  • Healthy diet. Eating a balanced diet helps manage weight and improve vascular health.
  • Compression therapy. Wearing compression socks or stockings can reduce swelling and improve circulation in your legs.
  • Medications. Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce pain and swelling and prevent blood clots.
  • Minimally Invasive Procedures. Techniques like sclerotherapy or endovenous laser treatment can treat varicose veins and other issues effectively with a shorter recovery time than surgery.

Comprehensive Treatment for PVD from CardioVascular Health Clinic

Early diagnosis of PVD and interventional treatments are key to better outcomes and a better quality of life while preventing severe complications. Venous disease can have subtle symptoms in its early stages, but if left untreated it can lead to blood clots and ulcers that can be difficult to remove. Because it is a progressive condition, the earlier you can get a diagnosis and treatment, the better for your recovery and quality of life.

At CardioVascular Health Clinic, we specialize in providing comprehensive, integrative care for peripheral venous disease. If you are experiencing symptoms such as cramping, throbbing, or swelling in your legs, don’t wait. Contact the specialists at CardioVascular Health Clinic today and take the first step toward improved vascular health and well-being.

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Testimonials

I’m about one month out and things are so much better. At my two week evaluation my symptom score had gone from a 27 to a 7, and I’m sure it’s even better now. That speaks volumes. Now that I’m post recovery, there is no incontinence, I go to the bathroom much less and there are no ED side effects like there are with other procedures. In regard to my quality of life, well, I don’t maintain my life based on my proximity to a bathroom anymore.

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Blaine P., M.D.
Professional staff working in a beautiful facility with great doctors who sincerely care about their patients. Without Dr. Schmidt's skill, I would have needed heart bypass surgery instead of a stent. Follow-up has been thorough. I can't recommend them highly enough.
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LeAnn H.

Dr. Jim Melton and all the staff are fantastic. He is an excellent surgeon and his team is GREAT!!!! I just had surgery at the surgery center, I have only great things to say about my experience. Without him I really don't think I would be here to write this. If you’re looking for a good cardiovascular team, they are a 5 star for sure.

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Susie H.

Dr. Parsons and staff are amazing. He truly listened to me from the consult. Staff showed genuine care for my progress post procedure. I had my follow up appointment today so satisfied with results. Blake made me comfortable from the start. He is an activist for uterine fibroids treatment beyond the standard.

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Tamara M.

Professional and caring staff. Dr. Smith is very knowledgeable and shows genuine concern for your personal health. I enjoyed the background music in the procedure room, it really adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

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David L.

Dr. John Schrader is the most personable doctor we know. He stays on top of my dads health care and is genuinely concerned about his health. We never leave his office with questions. He answers them all. Even questions we don’t think of. Always professional but never cold or bad bedside manner. In our opinion he is THE BEST around.
Thank you Dr Schrader.

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Kathy J.

I came to Dr. Warren by a self referral for mals when it took me 8yrs 50+ doctors and thousands of dollars spent on no answers. My first visit I was scared I was just going to be gaslighted just like the past however I was pleasantly shocked when Dr. Warren immediately believed me. She took the time to review many disk I had brought from past tests. She never once dismissed me and listened to ever word I had to say. She scheduled one last test to confirm the diagnosis then I was scheduled for surgery right away. Surgery was a success and I can’t thank her and her staff enough. Dr. Warren truly saved my life.

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Angie W.

Dr. Garner literally saved my life 18 months ago and I've followed him to his new practice with Cardiovascular Health. He explains things so clearly, listens and is just a very nice person. His staff is great, too! I highly recommend!

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D Watts

Some of the nicest staff that I have ever dealt with!! They have been so incredibly awesome to my mom!! Would definitely recommend them to anyone!! Thank you so much for being so great with her!!

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Christy G.

The staff, the nurses, and Dr. Parsons were all amazing. Everything was simple and went well – very Bravo Zulu (military phrase meaning "well done"). In addition to the great staff at CardioVascular Health Clinic, the facilities were clean and well maintained. I have no complaints about anything. The whole experience was A1. I would recommend Dr. Parsons to anyone. He made a huge impact on my life.

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